Atlanta Hawks’ De’Andre Hunter Traded as Playoff Race Heats Up

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Atlanta Hawks made a significant move ahead of the trade deadline, dealing former No. 4 overall pick De’Andre Hunter to the Cleveland Cavaliers. In exchange, the Hawks received veterans Caris LeVert, Georges Niang, along with first-round pick swaps.

Niang has quickly made an impact off the bench, shooting efficiently while bringing a competitive edge to the team. This edge became evident during a physical matchup with the Philadelphia 76ers, where emotions flared with guard Quentin Grimes.

“I don’t think that’s out of character or out of line,” Niang said on “The Bench Seat” podcast on March 28. “I’m a competitor. Who’s ever across from me, I don’t want to make you feel comfortable.”

Niang explained a specific sequence where Grimes called for him to switch defenders, which led to an intense physical exchange followed by a foul called against Niang. “I said what I said because I’m not out there to make it easy for you. That’s what has gotten me to this point,” he said.

The Hawks emerged victorious with a 132-119 win over the Sixers, marking their most recent victory as they prepared for a game against the Milwaukee Bucks on March 30.

As playoff ambitions are on the line, the Hawks find themselves on a two-game losing streak. With only nine games remaining in the regular season, they are vying for a stronger playoff position. ESPN assessed playoff scenarios and assigned the Hawks a relevant percentage based on current standings.

Currently, the Hawks rank among four teams still competing for a playoff berth. They remain in contention to overtake the No. 6 seed, currently held by the Bucks. According to ESPN, the Orlando Magic hold the best playoff chances among this group at 77%. The Hawks are closely followed by the Chicago Bulls and Miami Heat.

With significant games looming, including two matchups against the Magic, the Hawks are aware of the implications these games will carry regarding playoff seeding. Entering Sunday’s game, the Hawks aim to turn around their recent performance to solidify their postseason chances.

Atlanta’s loss to the Miami Heat on March 28 highlighted the urgency for the Hawks, who must perform well to avoid losing ground to the Toronto Raptors, who remain on the verge of contention. The Raptors boast a favorable record against the Hawks this season, winning two of three matchups.

Meanwhile, the franchise is also considering the future of several key players, including center Clint Capela. At 30, Capela is averaging 8.9 points and 8.5 rebounds this season, both career lows since 2016-17.

Capela, who is on an expiring two-year $46 million contract, faces an uncertain future with the team following trade talks and limited starting opportunities. As the Hawks prepare to transition to a younger roster, the decisions surrounding Capela’s future remain crucial.

“After being benched in favor of Onyeka Okongwu, it seems likely Capela will enter unrestricted free agency this summer,” reported HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto. “With nine games still left in the season, he has a chance to make an impact if the Hawks secure a playoff position.”

Despite his downsized role this season and ongoing knee issues, Capela’s contributions during the playoffs could still be vital for Atlanta. However, multiple factors, including potential pay cuts and a shift in team dynamics, will influence his future with the organization.

As the Hawks gear up for the final stretch of the season, they remain focused on achieving a playoff spot and navigating the changes that the offseason will bring.